2011 Chevrolet Equinox

Fatalities reported

Owners filed 782 complaints about this vehicle with federal regulators, most often about the engine. It has been recalled 3 times.

Not among the Chevrolet Equinox years to avoid. Which Chevrolet Equinox years to avoid →

When it fails
020k40k60k90k120k200k
80,000 milesMedian miles at failure

628 complaints record an odometer reading. Failures cluster around 120,000–150,000 miles.

Most common 2011 Chevrolet Equinox problems

348 of the 782 complaints (45%) are about the engine.

ComponentReportsCrashesFiresInjuries
Engine323
124
Power Train · transmission66
000
Visibility/Wiper · wipers61
000
Air Bags · airbags49
15112
Electrical System48
101
Electronic Stability Control (esc) · stability control38
300
Steering29
100
Unknown or Other27
002
Fuel/Propulsion System · fuel and propulsion system20
000
Vehicle Speed Control · throttle and acceleration19
000

2011 Chevrolet Equinox engine problems

45% of all complaints

348 of the 782 complaints are about the engine. This is what owners describe:

  • burns oil or loses oil pressure31% · 109
  • stalls27% · 94
  • turns on the check engine light23% · 81
  • sets off warning lights on the dash22% · 78
  • knocks, grinds or clunks12% · 42
  • leaks oil or fluid11% · 39

Share of the 348 engine complaints whose text describes each symptom. One complaint can describe several.

Typical mileage
87,000 mi
median of 285 reports
Peak year of filing
2019
63 engine complaints that year
Crashes · fires · injuries
1 · 2 · 4
in these complaints
Recalls on the engine
None
“The contact owns a 2011 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated that while the mother was driving, the vehicle suddenly stalled. The vehicle was towed to the residence and was later diagnosed by an independent mechanic, who discovered metal shavings in the engine oil pan and informed the contact that the engine had seized and needed to be replaced.”
Owner complaint, filed Aug 28, 2026 at 117,000 miles
“I purchased the 2011 Chevrolet Equinox 5 months ago from a dealership name The Automaxx group in Morrisville, PA. Two weeks after, the check engine light came on, I took it back to the dealership and it was in the shop for 3 days or more. I got it back and every week it was back in the shop for the last four months. I was very hesitant about driving it, but I need to get to my doctor appointments and then I park it.”
Owner complaint, filed Dec 4, 2023

Complaints and recalls over time

By year of filing
2010: 1 complaints, 0 about the engine'102011: 47 complaints, 10 about the engine2012: 29 complaints, 10 about the engine'122013: 33 complaints, 16 about the engine2014: 60 complaints, 19 about the engine'142015: 65 complaints, 19 about the engine2016: 74 complaints, 32 about the engine'162017: 84 complaints, 43 about the engine2018: 98 complaints, 49 about the engine'182019: 116 complaints, 63 about the engine2020: 52 complaints, 25 about the engine'202021: 37 complaints, 24 about the engine2022: 30 complaints, 16 about the engine'222023: 26 complaints, 14 about the engine2024: 11 complaints, 4 about the engine'242025: 11 complaints, 0 about the engine2026: 8 complaints, 4 about the engine'26Recall 10V623000 (seat belts)Recall 14V447000 (seats)Recall 16V502000 (electrical system)NHTSA investigation PE20009NHTSA investigation EA19005NHTSA investigation RQ18002
All complaintsAbout the engineRecall (red: the engine)NHTSA investigation opened

Complaints about the 2011 Equinox peaked in 2019, with 116 filed that year. No recall on file covers the engine, the subject of 45% of the complaints. In 2026 owners filed 8 so far.

3 safety recalls

Part 573 reports
Electrical System › Ignition16V502000
Filed Jul 5, 20168,367 vehiclesGeneral Motors LLC

Defect. General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2016-2017 Buick Verano and 2016 Chevrolet Malibu as the electronic park lock lever may allow the ignition key to be removed without the transmission being in PARK. Also, certain 2013 Buick Encore, 2011 Buick Regal, 2013-2014 Buick Verano, 2011-2016 Chevrolet Cruze, 2010-2013 Chevrolet Equinox 2013-2015 Chevrolet Malibu, and 2011-2013 GMC Terrain vehicles may have been serviced with similar defective replacement electronic park lock levers. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 114, "Theft Protection and Rollaway Prevention."

Risk. If the key is removed without the transmission in PARK, the vehicle may rollaway as occupants are exiting, increasing the risk of injury.

Remedy. GM will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and if necessary replace the key cylinder lock housing, free of charge. The recall began on October 14, 2016. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, Buick 1-800-521-7300, and GMC 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is 50490 and 50491.

Seats › Front Assembly › Power Adjust14V447000
Filed Jul 23, 2014414,333 vehiclesGeneral Motors LLC

Defect. General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2011-2012 Buick LaCrosse, Regal and Chevrolet Camaro, as well as certain 2010-2012 Cadillac SRX, Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain vehicles, equipped with power height adjustable driver and passenger seats. In the affected vehicles, the bolt that secures the driver's and passenger's power front seat height adjuster may fall out causing the seat to drop suddenly to the lowest vertical position.

Risk. If the driver's seat unexpectedly drops, the distraction and altered seat position may affect the drivers' control of the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy. GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the height adjuster shoulder bolts, free of charge. The manufacturer distributed interim letters to owners on September 11, 2014. The recall began on December 26, 2014. Owners may contact GM customer service at 1-800-521-7300 (Buick), 1-800-458-8006 (Cadillac), 1-800-222-1020 (Chevrolet), or 1-800-462-8782 (GMC). GM's number for this recall is 14271.

Seat Belts › Front › Buckle Assembly10V623000
Filed Dec 15, 201097,843 vehiclesGeneral Motors Corp.

Defect. GENERAL MOTORS IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2011 CADILLAC SRX, CHEVROLET EQUINOX AND GMC TERRAIN VEHICLES. THE DRIVER AND /OR FRONT PASSENGER SAFETY BELT BUCKLE ANCHOR MAY FRACTURE AND SEPARATE NEAR THE SEAT ATTACHMENT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.

Risk. THE SAFETY BELT SYSTEM MAY NOT RESTRAIN THE OCCUPANT(S) AS DESIGNED AND COULD INCREASE THE RISK OF INJURY.

Remedy. DEALERS WILL MODIFY THE PASSENGER AND/OR THE DRIVER SAFETY BELT BUCKLES AS NECESSARY. THIS SERVICE WILL BE PERFORMED FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN ON OR BEFORE JANUARY 18, 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CADILLAC AT 1-866-982-2339, CHEVROLET AT 1-800-630-2438, GMC AT 1-866-996-9463 AND AT THE OWNER CENTER AT WWW.GMOWNERCENTER.COM.

All 3 campaigns on file, newest first.

NHTSA investigations

Office of Defects Investigation

Before a recall there is often an investigation: NHTSA opens one when complaints or manufacturer data point to a safety defect. 3 name the 2011 Equinox.

Momentary Increased Steering EffortPreliminary evaluation PE20009Closed
Opened Jun 1, 2020Closed Jun 3, 2022steering

On June 1, 2020, the Office of Defects Investigations (ODI) opened PE20-009 to investigate instances of a momentary increase in steering effort after the vehicle is driven in a straight line for a period of time due to an issue with the steering gear in model year (MY) 2010 through 2012 Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain SUVs.If the electric power steering system fails to operate as intended, the driver will experience momentary increased effort when attempting to turn the steering wheel from the straight-ahead position. For this condition to occur, the driver would need to have traveled in a …

Front Wiper Transmission InoperativeEngineering analysis EA19005Closed
Opened Dec 13, 2019Closed Nov 28, 2022Led to recall 22V165000visibility

On December 13, 2019, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) upgraded RQ18-002 to an Engineering Analysis (EA19-005) to further assess the MY2010-2016 Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain windshield wiper failures. Due to a prior recall, 16V-582, addressing this issue in the MY2013 subject vehicles, MY2013 was not included in the analysis. To date, ODI had received 998 complaints with allegations of the front windshield wiper failing in adverse whether conditions, while the vehicle was in motion.General Motors (GM) initiated Safety Recall 16V-582 on August 3, 2016 to address windshield wiper …

Windshield Wiper Transmission FailureRecall query RQ18002Closed
Opened Nov 2, 2018Closed Dec 19, 2019visibility

On November 2, 2018, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened a Recall Query (RQ18-002) to assess the scope of Recall 16V-582.General Motors (GM) initiated Safety Recall 16V-582 on August 3, 2016 to address windshield wiper failure in the Model Year (MY) 2013 Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain. Failures were attributed to water and debris intrusion into the windshield wiper assembly ball joints, leading to excessive wear and eventual detachment of the affected ball joint with an attendant loss of windshield wiper function. The recall remedy addressed these conditions with the …

Technical service bulletins

1,767 on file

Repair instructions the manufacturer sent its dealers for the 2011 Equinox. Not recalls: the fix is usually free only while the car is under warranty.

equipment 561engine 297electrical system 271transmission 90fuel system 83equipment adaptive/mobility 70visibility 58steering 55
General CommunicationService campaignAug 26, 2024electrical system

Vehicle Wide Programming (VWP) is a new process to update software on GM Vehicles. It provides the ability via a single selection within Techline Connect to first identify which modules need updating and then proceed to updating affected modules (with some exceptions). The updating of modules is completed in parallel instead of the technician needing to …

PIT5236GService campaignMar 31, 2016electrical system

This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that have a Diagnostic Trouble Code B101D stored in Telematics Communication Interface Control Module. Technician will check Global Warranty Management system for customer satisfaction program 15086 status. If the status of the customer satisfaction program …

PIT5236FService campaignAug 3, 2015electrical system

This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that have a Diagnostic Trouble Code B101D stored in Telematics Communication Interface Control Module. Technician will check Global Warranty Management system for customer satisfaction program 15086 status. If the status of the customer satisfaction program …

13322BService campaignJun 11, 2015electrical system

13322B - CUSTOMER SATISFACTION PROGRAM (REVISED POPULATION AND SERVICE PROCEDURE). CERTAIN 2010 MODEL YEAR BUICK LACROSSE; CADILLAC SRX; CHEVROLET EQUINOX; GMC TERRAIN AND 2011 MODEL YEAR BUICK LACROSSE; BUICK REGAL; CADILLAC SRX; CHEVROLET CRUZE; CHEVROLET EQUINOX; GMC TERRAIN VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH NAVIGATION RADIOS MAY EXPERIENCE VARIOUS PERFORMANCE …

00-06-01-026RService Bulletin/Repair InstructionsJun 5, 2025engine

This service bulletin provides information on replacing the intake manifold when the engine is replaced after severe internal engine damage.

23-NA-153Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsMay 15, 2025engine

The service bulletin advises the tech of a normal transmission shift condition and the delay in throttle response when the throttle plate is opened rapidly and advises the customer that it is normal for the delay.

22-NA-074Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsJan 30, 2025engine

This service bulletin provides service information to technicians on guidelines to replace Oil Cooler, Oil Cooler Lines and Oil Tank if the engine was replaced where large amounts of debris has flowed throughout the oiling system.

04-06-01-029KService Bulletin/Repair InstructionsOct 28, 2024engine

This informational bulletin explains Unscheduled Supplemental Services and the importance of GM Simplified Maintenance Schedules.

01-06-01-011QService Bulletin/Repair InstructionsOct 5, 2024engine

This service bulletin provides guidelines and diagnostic/repair information to technicians regarding vehicle engine oil consumption.

04-06-04-051JService Bulletin/Repair InstructionsSep 27, 2024engine

This service bulletin provides information for maintenance cleaning of the fuel injectors and gasoline detergent additive.

Showing the newest 6 of 297 bulletins about the engine, and any warranty extensions or service campaigns.

Crash test ratings

NHTSA 5-star safety ratings
Version testedOverallFrontalSideRolloverRollover risk
2011 Chevrolet Equinox SUV AWD★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★17.4%
2011 Chevrolet Equinox SUV FWD★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★19.1%

New Car Assessment Program results for this model year. Ratings compare cars of similar size and weight only.

What owners reported

Newest filings
Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed Aug 28, 2026117,000 milesNE

The contact owns a 2011 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated that while the mother was driving, the vehicle suddenly stalled. The vehicle was towed to the residence and was later diagnosed by an independent mechanic, who discovered metal shavings in the engine oil pan and informed the contact that the engine had seized and needed to be replaced. The contact stated that prior to the engine failure, the vehicle experienced excessive oil consumption over a 14-month period. The local dealer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 117,000.

Engine
Filed Aug 3, 2026168,000 milesNC

The contact owns a 2011 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated that after starting the vehicle, there was an abnormal fuel odor inside the cabin of the vehicle, and the engine was rattling and vibrating abnormally. During the failure, there was no warning light illuminated. The cause of the failure was not yet determined. The manufacturer and the local dealer were not yet contacted. No further information was available. The failure mileage was 168,000.

Electrical System › Instrument Panel › Speedometer/Odometer
Filed Jun 23, 2026175,000 milesTX

Odometer Fraud. The contact purchased a 2011 Chevrolet Equinox. It was discovered that there was a mileage discrepancy. The vehicle was a private sale. At the time of purchase, the mileage was 119,000, and at the time of a Carfax report check, it was discovered that the mileage was 175,000.

Structure › BodyCrash1 injured
Filed May 15, 2026MI

I was in a rear end collision on May 14th 2026 the impact of the speed totaled my car in my airbags did not deploy and from my understanding where the sensors are on my vehicle they should have I ended up getting a concussion and soft tissue damage because my head hit the steering wheel my seat belt did not lock either.

Engine
Filed Feb 23, 2026CA

Vehicle burns excessive oil. Have to put in a quart weekly. Check engine light comes on for camshaft sensor, they’ve already been replaced 3 times and the light won’t go off.

Visibility/Wiper
Filed Jan 29, 2026MI

Wipers have stopped working, have had it repaired twice and they keep quitting.

Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed Jan 20, 2026165,000 milesVA

The contact owns a 2011 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated that the vehicle was consuming an excessive amount of engine oil. While driving at various speeds, there was a misfire coming from the engine while attempting to accelerate. The failure occurred while attempting to accelerate from a stop. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a certified mechanic, who diagnosed that a shaft inside the engine had failed, and the engine needed to be replaced. The engine was replaced with a rebuilt engine; however, the failure reoccurred approximately 4 months after the engine was replaced. The vehicle was returned to the mechanic, who diagnosed and determined that the same failure had reoccurred. The engine valves and exhaust were cleaned; however, the failure persisted. The contact stated that smoke was entering the cabin of the vehicle and out of the exhaust pipe while the heater was activated. The vehicle was returned to the mechanic, who then diagnosed that the engine needed to be replaced another time. The vehicle was repaired again. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 165,000.

Visibility/Wiper
Filed Jan 9, 2026125,000 milesMI

The contact owns a 2011 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated that while the windshield wiper was activated, the windshield wiper arms detached. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 125,000.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Sep 21, 2025WI

While driving, the car wouldn't accelerate even though I was pressing the gas pedal to the floor. It made funny noises and was jerking. I was told not to drive because of the danger to my engine. The engine light did come on

Fuel System, Gasoline
Filed Jul 15, 202590,000 milesIL

The contact owns a 2011 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated while driving 70 MPH, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended while depressing the accelerator pedal. In addition, the contact stated that once the fuel gauge displayed that 1/4 tank of gasoline was available, the vehicle jerked, and there was an abnormal sound coming from the engine with the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the pistons had failed, and the engine was consuming an excessive amount of engine oil. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and advised the contact to file a complaint with the NHTSA Hotline. The failure mileage was approximately 90,000.

Fuel System, Gasoline
Filed Jul 14, 2025100,000 milesIL

The contact owns a 2011 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated that while his wife was driving at various speeds, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended while depressing the accelerator pedal. In addition, the vehicle jerked, and an abnormal sound was heard coming from the engine. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who diagnosed that the pistons had failed, and the engine was consuming an excessive amount of engine oil. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and advised the contact to file a complaint with the NHTSA Hotline. The failure mileage was approximately 100,000.

Electrical System
Filed Jun 19, 2025OH

I BOUGHT THIS OFF OF A PRIVATE PERSON ,SHORTLY AFTER IT STARTED NOT TAKEN ITS GAS AND DYING OUT ON THE HIGHWAY OR SHORT ERRANDS ,I STARTED PUTTING A BUNCH OF MONEY IN IT IVE REPLACED ALL I KNOW TO DO AND IT STILL WONT TAKES ITS GAS ,I HAVE BEEN STALLED IN AN INTERSECTION BEFORE BECAUSE I HAD NO PEDAL IF YOU TURN IT OFF IT STARTS BUT JUST WONT TAKE THE GAS ,I HEARD THIS VEHICAL WAS RECALLED AND I DONT KNOW IF ITS NEVER BEEN FIXED OR WHATS GOING ON WITH IT ,IVE HAD IT TO MANY MECHANICS AND NO ONE CAN FIX IT ,CAN YOU TELL ME IF ANY OF THIS IS ON THE RECALL LIST AND IF ITS BEEN TAKEN CARE OF IT ? I CANT DRIVE IT LIKE THIS ITS TOO DANGEROUS . I BOUGHT THE CAR IN 24 , AND ITS NEVER RAN SINCE WITH OUT ISSUES THAT NO ONE CAN FIND THE PROBLEM OF FIX IT THE RIGHT WAY ,THANK YOU

Vehicle Speed Control
Filed May 23, 2025IA

Three times now my gas pedal has stuck down to the floor and had unsafe speeds reaching 95mph this is unsafe for us and others on the road wrote GM several times now with no help from them this needs to be checked out for everyone out there how many wrecks and rear end collision happened because of this acceleration issue mine seem to happen when you take it off cruise control and then accelerate the gas pedal but he dealerships can't find an answer I am asking for your help before someone get killed because no one wants to take action

Vehicle Speed Control
Filed May 15, 2025IA

To whom it may concern: I am writing to notify you that I own a 2011 Chevy Equinox and take very good care of my vehicles. But I wanted to let you know that I have had three incidents in which the gas pedal sticks, and the vehicle goes up to 95 miles an hour. I have contacted the dealership and GM to let them know of this. They cannot explain why this is happening. GM just said trade it in. Well, that's a possibility and who says if the next person purchases it that this could happen to them. So far, we have been able to avoid an accident. I am wondering if anyone else has had this complaint because GM says no., I feel it has something to do with the cruise control that it has a computer glitz. Can you investigate this if anyone else has had this problem.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed May 15, 2025TN

Gas is getting into the crankcase because the GDI Fuel pump is faulty and is causing check engine light and the stability Trax light and caused the reduce engine power light and shuts engine off

Steering
Filed Mar 6, 2025149,000 milesVA

The contact owns a 2011 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the check engine warning light illuminated on the instrument panel, prompting the contact to discontinue driving the vehicle. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, who observed a small amount of fluid within the engine compartment. The dealer later determined that the fluid was power steering fluid. However, the dealer was unable to determine the exact location of the leak. The contact was advised to continue driving the vehicle for 1 week then return for a follow-up inspection. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 149,000.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Feb 18, 2025DE

It burns oil excessively Stalls out while driving Stability traction control comes on Timing chain has to be replaced now Fuel pump needs replacement All this happened at same time My cost is 2700.00

Unknown or Other
Filed Jan 28, 2025MI

Catalytic converter, exhuast manifold, and whole exhaust system need to be replaced

Steering
Filed Jan 22, 202578,000 milesMD

The contact owns a 2011 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated that while driving approximately 15-20 MPH and making a left turn, the vehicle lost power steering functionality. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed that the power steering assist was inoperable. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 78,000.

Engine
Filed Dec 16, 2024IN

Oil burns, no leaks, no lights appear for low oil. I get the oil changed every 3000 miles. We put 3 quarts in and 200 miles later it's burned 1.5 qt.

Air Bags
Filed Nov 12, 2024160,243 milesIN

The contact owns a 2011 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated that the message to “Service Air Bags” was displayed. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 160,243.

Engine
Filed Nov 8, 2024GA

Jerking between gears

Air BagsCrash
Filed Oct 1, 2024142,357 milesWA

The contact owned a 2011 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated that while driving up a hill on a 2-lane road at approximately 45 mph, an oncoming vehicle in the opposing lane had taken too wide of a turn and had entered her lane, to avoid a head-on collision the contact swerved into the guard rail. Upon crashing, the air bags did not deploy. No warning lights were illuminated before the crash. The contact was able to drive the vehicle to the residence and deemed a total loss. The contact has an appointment with a doctor to determine whether any injuries were sustained. Nobody outside of the vehicle was injured. A police report was filed. A dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 142,357.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Sep 6, 2024IL

No warning lamps. I was 3 quarts low only going 1614 miles from last oil change. Oil consumption , piston rings not correct. No oil leaks just consumes a lot of oil. Low oil made my car stall out while driving. No oil light came on to fill. Piston rings recall , needs replaced. Bought from an individual in July.

Electrical System
Filed May 13, 2024MS

Trouble code p2138. Replaced accelerator pedal with OEM. Trouble code still persists. Car goes into limp mode while driving posing a safety concern. There is a TSB 07-06-04-019F. Other codes include p0301 and p0697. After limp mode I have to pull over and turn car completely off and crank it up again to get out of it.

Visibility/Wiper
Filed Apr 30, 2024MN

Joint on the front windshield wiper assembly failed. Was driving in a 4 lane highway doing about 70 mph while it was raining. Windshield wipers stopped halfway through the movement they sat for a moment they moved to as far as they could go towards the driver side and that’s where they stayed. The driver side one was over the edge of the vehicle. I followed tail lights turning onto a side road, pulled over safely. Moved the wipers to a down position, there was no resistance. Checked the fuse and that was fine. Waited a bit for the rain to settle a bit and drove to a safer location. Once off the highway and away from traffic when turning the windshield wipers on I could hear the motor still going so knew it was an issue with the arms. I had been on the road for about 2 hours all major highway with still over 2.5 hours left of my drive when they failed. We had to trailer it home as it was not safe to drive with the amount of rain we were getting. Replaced the motor and arm mechanism when we got it home and saw that it was one of the ball joints that broke. There were no warning lights, we have the old parts if needed for inspection, this looks to be the same issue as the recalled parts on the 2014-2015 equinox.

Vehicle Speed Control
Filed Apr 23, 2024IA

I bought my 2011 Equinox new then in 2013 the gas pedal went to the floor and stuck down on a two lane road and I could not control the speed as we react 90 I shut down the vechical took it to the dealership the next day the chevolet co had the dealership dump the on board computer and then down load a new program this worked until the other day we were coming home from taking another couple to there dentist appointments on the way home the gas pedal sucked right to the floor again the speed rose to the 90 we were on a four lane I had cars behinde me but not in front i keep trying to get the foot up i was afraid if i shut it offf we would get rear ended every one was scared i told them what was going on as the speeds keeped increasing trying to hit the brakes to slow some down and taping on the gas pedal i tried prying the pedal up with my foot and after the third attemp it poped up. I call chevolet they said they were not going to do anything about it I told them this is a big safty issue there commet was the vechical is out of warranty and miles I ony have 103K on it and very well maintained with Birdnow chevorlet great dealership Chevrolet is not taking these gas pedal sticking down serious I read were there are several vechical with this same problem and it will take people getting hurt or killed before something down Thank You

Unknown or Other
Filed Feb 8, 2024AR

I had just bought this car from a friend of mine and the first couple days it was fine then I was on the interstate and it started making this loud sound and stop going in the middle of the interstate and I was stuck on the interstate with my child and couldn’t get the dam thing to go anywhere I called someone to come help me they looked at it and said it was the engine or the time and chain I’m not really sure of what the problem is but it scared me so back I couldn’t get over to the shoulder to save my life I was stuck

Engine
Filed Jan 23, 2024118,000 milesFL

The contact owns a 2011 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated while driving 70 MPH, the vehicle stalled. The vehicle remained on the side of the roadway. Additionally, the contact observed condensation under the engine compartment. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that the rear main seal and the timing chain needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and a case was filed. The failure mileage was 118,000.

Engine
Filed Jan 16, 2024MO

The oil has had to be changed every month. The oil just disappears. I have to check and fill it weekly. I was told it a manufacturing problem. Now I’m on the side of the road, I heard a loud bang and it started smoking and oil is all over the ground. I’m waiting on roadside assistance.

Power Train
Filed Dec 18, 2023150,000 milesIL

The contact owns a 2011 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated while driving 40 MPH and depressing the accelerator pedal, the vehicle hesitated to respond. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact was able to continue driving. The contact stated that while attempting to drive from a complete stop the following day, the accelerator pedal was depressed, but the vehicle failed to respond. The dealer and the manufacturer were not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 150,000.

EngineFire1 injured
Filed Dec 6, 2023185,000 milesOK

The contact owns a 2011 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated while driving 40 MPH, he noticed smoke coming from underneath the hood. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact pulled into a business parking lot. The contact stated that he opened the hood and noticed the engine compartment had caught fire. Additionally, the contact stated that the battery was burned and was bubbly. The contact was able to extinguish the fire with water bottles. A fire department report and a police report were not filed. The contact sustained a minor burn on the right hand and did not receive medical assistance. The vehicle was towed to the residence of the contact's parents. The dealer and the manufacturer were not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 185,000.

Engine
Filed Dec 4, 2023NJ

I purchased the 2011 Chevrolet Equinox 5 months ago from a dealership name The Automaxx group in Morrisville, PA. Two weeks after, the check engine light came on, I took it back to the dealership and it was in the shop for 3 days or more. I got it back and every week it was back in the shop for the last four months. I was very hesitant about driving it, but I need to get to my doctor appointments and then I park it. I had to constantly put oil in it and not knowing why or where the oil is going. It started smoking black thick smoke under the hood and cut off, then cut back on and I took it to the shop near my home, and let the mechanic diagnose the problem and he said the vehicle is not safe to drive at all, it's engine failure due to excessive oil consumption and that the vehicle could possibly catch on fire and that it's a defect with the engine from general Motors. I just would like to recoup the money back that I paid for the vehicle. I was totally unaware of the harm that I was in with this vehicle. I am not sure if the dealership was aware of the faulty engine or the dangerous vehicle that they sold, but thank God I wasn't hurt and that I don't have to inhale the smoke from that vehicle. The check engine light has been on for awhile and I was told that they weren't sure why it would not go off, that was a red flag for me. It has not been inspected by the manufacturer, police or insurance company.

Engine
Filed Nov 22, 2023110,000 milesNC

The contact owns a 2011 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the contact heard an abnormal knocking sound with the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed with excessive oil consumption. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The contact stated that the vehicle was consuming engine oil excessively fast. The contact stated several quarts of oil were kept in the vehicle to avoid the oil becoming extremely low. The vehicle was taken to the dealer and diagnosed with excessive oil consumption and the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and a case was filed. The failure mileage was approximately 110,000.

Engine
Filed Nov 11, 2023MD

Engine locked up no oil, six months after oil change with low travel miles. Car sits most of the time. No warning indicators, service not due.

Steering
Filed Sep 13, 2023159,000 milesME

The contact owns a 2011 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated while driving approximately 40 MPH and making a left turn, the vehicle lost power steering functionality. The contact stated that there was an unknown warning light illuminated. The contact was able to continue driving the vehicle. The contact stated that the failure started out intermittently and had gradually over the years became a reoccurring failure. The contact stated that the failure recurred at various speeds. The contact had not taken the vehicle to a local dealer. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 159,000.

Engine
Filed Sep 8, 2023IL

Excessive Oil Consumption.

Engine
Filed Aug 3, 2023NV

[XXX] [XXX] [XXX] Findlay Chevrolet Chevy has thousands of complaints regarding the 2.4L oil consumption. Thousands! The engine has 97,500 and consumes 2qts in 1,000miles. I requesting that GM helps fix the issue. A normal engine does not even consume 1qt in 3000miles, let alone 2qts in 1,000. It does not leak. The only problem is a GM defect possibly with piston rings which is documented with similar years. On top of this. They had an airbag recall for similar models and years. This vehicle they say, does not have a VIN on the recall. Yet, my “service airbag” error is on. It seems that GM does not care if someone has an airbag that may go off at 70mph. Not do they care about selling people engines that consume oil at a rate that will leave people stranded in the middle of nowhere. Or possibly starting on fire from getting too hot from not having oil in the engine. Thank you for your time INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Engine
Filed Jul 9, 2023TN

Just got a 2011 Chevrolet Equinox from a dealership that I trusted. Only had a few weeks and it just stalled on me while driving in traffic!!! 😱 Would not start back ! It was terrifying!!! Thank God it wasn’t rush hour! A nice man helped push it out of road into a parking lot! Now I find out there are safety issues and recalls that I was not aware of! Faulty oil piston rings caused it to jump time! They want over 7,000$ to fix but I do not have that kind of money!!!Its a death trap and shouldn’t have been allowed to re sale!!!

Vehicle Speed Control
Filed Jul 6, 2023PA

ACCELERATOR BECAME UNRESPONSIVE. HAD TO PLACE CAR IN NUTRAL AND BACK TO DRIVE TO REGAIN CONTROL.

Air Bags
Filed Jun 23, 2023NV

There is a SB-10058723-5799, that addresses airbags. I have a 2011 Chevy Equinox with 94k miles on it. The ‘service airbag’ error stays on the screen. I called Chevy to ask if I can bring vehicle in under SB 10058723-5799, and they told me my vehicle does not fall under this, AND they say the SB 10058723-5799 is expired. I asked they lady, so if the airbag deploys while I’m driving 65mph on the freeway, you’re not going to fix it under a recall that you say is expired. This makes absolutely no sense, and I believe it should fall under NHTSA’s special bulletin. Please help me. Thank you for your time.

Visibility/Wiper
Filed Jun 18, 2023IL

The wipers stopped working on the highway pouring down rain

Engine
Filed Jun 9, 2023ME

The vehicle started rocking during regular errands but displayed no error codes. Turned it off and left for a few minutes, when returned it would not start just the engine spinning. Had it towed to a local mechanic chain where they said it was likely a major issue and that there was no compression. They wouldn't be able to fix it so towed it to a dealer. Once the dealer had a look they determined the piston ring was blown/etc and the Equinox would need a whole new engine to get working again. The dealer also stated there was little to no oil in the system, and no light or warning of any sign had alerted. The vehicle had under 3000mi since the last oil change and only 69000mi in total use. Apparently there is TSB/warranty and major known issue in regards to oil consumption but not that I was made aware of before looking into since this issue. I have also been told that there are no active recalls on my vehicle and the VIN says everything that needed to be addressed has been.

Engine
Filed May 7, 2023CO

The vehicle’s engine had been stalling shortly after ignition and when idling. I had it in a repair shop three separate times and was told that it was a problem with the solenoids. The first two times, they were cleaned. They were replaced on the third. I was also told that the vehicle was using an excessive amount of oil, and to bring it in every 3000 miles for an oil change. On the date of the incident, I was traveling home. I took exit 363 off of I-70 onto US-287. While traveling down the off-ramp, the engine stalled. I was unable to brake properly. By the time the vehicle came to a complete stop, I was the middle of a busy crossroads. This particular area sees a lot of traffic, especially semitrailer trucks. When I was next able to get it into be looked at, I chose a different shop because the first had clearly missed something. It was this shop that told me my engine was ruined because it had been being driven without oil, despite not being at the 3000 mile mark yet. The vehicle has not been driven since, as I have not had the $7000 it would cost to replace the engine. Please, if there is any advice or help you can give me, I’d so appreciate words of wisdom. Thank you for your time.

Engine
Filed May 2, 2023143,822 milesNE

The contact owns a 2011 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated that the vehicle failed to provide notification whenever the oil level was low. The vehicle was hesitating and shuddering before accelerating. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer and the contact was informed that the vehicle was experiencing an abnormal oil consumption, causing engine failure. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle had not been repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 143,822.

Engine and Engine Cooling › Exhaust System › Emission Control › Catalytic Convertor
Filed May 1, 2023150,000 milesAR

The contact owns a 2011 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated that while coming to a complete stop, the vehicle lost motive power. Additionally, the check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who diagnosed the vehicle with a catalytic converter failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 150,000.

Engine
Filed Apr 3, 2023MI

Stalling and stopping completely while coming to a stop. New muffler put in, still stalling! - I drive daily with my two children under five and the risk of my truck stopping completely while driving is my biggest safety concern for both my children and I!

Air Bags1 injured
Filed Apr 3, 2023TN

Traveling at low speed in driveway. When the side airbags deployed for seemingly no reason. There was no collision, did not run over anything etc.

Electrical System
Filed Mar 15, 2023CA

The windshield wipers and yes, available at anytime for inspection. I was traveling Hwy 80 and the wipers stopped working completely in a downpour of rain at 70 mph. I could not see and could not even follow the rear taillights in front of me to stay in my lane. I put my right blinker on and slowly moved to the slow lane in order to take the next exit off the highway. Had to travel over the highway on the overpass and needed to turn right. Couldn’t see detail so ended up running over yellow barriers then made it to the right turn and was barely able to make out a driveway which was a Starbucks. Stopped to confirm wipers would not work and to move wipers by hand to clear windshield. Every 4 or 5 blocks had to stop and get out to physically move wipers by hand to clear rain water from windshield in order to drive further. It was so dangerous, I could of easily caused accidents for others and myself and also could have been fatal! Next time you’re on the highway, close your eyes and keep driving-it was the same and scared me to the point that I was shaking!!! Thank God I didn’t have my grandkids with me!!

Electrical System
Filed Mar 15, 2023CA

The key can be removed although drivetrain is not in Park? Also, a week ago while picking up my grandkids from school, my car would not start. It was parked. Everything was dead and the key could not be removed from the ignition which was quite odd even if it was a dead battery, the key should come out of the ignition? It was in Park. The key could be turned but not taken out of ignition?

Complaints 1-50 of 782, newest first, reproduced as filed.

Across model years

Worst on record: 2010
YearComplaintsRecallsFiresDeathsAssessment
20271000Routine
202679110Routine
2025241000Above average
202484110Routine
202399300Routine
2022186630Routine
2021100400Routine
2020318471Fatalities reported
2019310470Above average
2018410541Fatalities reported
2017276040Above average
2016399130Above average
2015680260Above average
2014549140Above average
2013751250Above average
2012685360Above average
2011 — this page782332Fatalities reported
2010784390Above average
200994010Routine
2008370010Above average
2007685460Above average
2006695091Fatalities reported
20056381130High concern

Compare every Equinox year →

2011 Chevrolet Equinox: questions buyers ask

Is the 2011 Chevrolet Equinox a good car?

It is not among the Equinox years to avoid. Owners filed 782 complaints, against about 405 for a typical Equinox year. The most common complaint is about the engine (45%). In NHTSA crash tests it scored 4 stars overall.

What is the most common problem with the 2011 Chevrolet Equinox?

The engine: 348 of the 782 complaints (45%) are about it. Owners most often say it burns oil or loses oil pressure (31%), stalls (27%) and turns on the check engine light (23%). The typical report comes at 87,000 miles.

How many recalls does the 2011 Chevrolet Equinox have?

3 safety recalls on file with NHTSA, the most recent filed Jul 5, 2016. The largest, 14V447000, covered 414,333 vehicles. Recall repairs are free at a dealer; whether a specific car still has one open depends on its VIN.

At what mileage do 2011 Chevrolet Equinox problems start?

Half of the complaints that record an odometer reading came in before 80,000 miles. For the engine the midpoint is 87,000 miles.

Has NHTSA investigated the 2011 Chevrolet Equinox?

Yes, 3 times. The latest, PE20009 ("Momentary Increased Steering Effort"), was opened Jun 1, 2020 and closed Jun 3, 2022.

Are there service bulletins for the 2011 Chevrolet Equinox?

The manufacturer filed 1,767 technical service bulletins and other notices for it with NHTSA, most of them about the engine (297), the electrical system (271) and the transmission (90). They include a service campaign, General Communication, filed Aug 26, 2024. A bulletin is a repair instruction to dealers, not a recall: the fix is usually free only under warranty.

Reading this record

2 deaths reported in complaints filed with NHTSA.

Complaint counts track how many cars were sold and how long they have been on the road as much as they track quality. A common model from 2013 has had a decade to accumulate reports; a rare one from last year has not. The signal worth weighing is in the severity columns, in whether the same component keeps appearing, and in whether the manufacturer eventually opened a recall for it.

Recall repairs are free for as long as the recall stands. Check whether a specific car still has open work at NHTSA's VIN lookup.

Most recent recall on file: Jul 5, 2016. Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.